The Gathering Place is expanding its operations as it converts the former Mercy Convent into a permanent housing solution for people in need.
Executive Director Paul Davis says the current temporary shelter was created during COVID, with the intent of developing a more permanent facility. That process is now well underway.
He says the renovation work has been ongoing for months, and they thought today was a good day to update the public on their progress.
Gathering Place board chair Sister Elizabeth Davis and executive director Paul Davis provide details of ongoing expansion/renovation project of the facility, the former Mercy Convent and girls school, in downtown St. John’s. @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/mC1gg1umYW
— Brian Callahan (@briancallahan67) May 31, 2023
He says the building has been taken back to the studs on a building dating back to the 1800s. He calls the craftsmanship involved in the original construction “nothing short of artwork.”
He describes the building as a multi-purpose housing facility, with 40 permanent beds, instead of cots in four different rooms on the main floor. The second floor will include transitional housing with shelter-style congregate living and semi-private rooms.
The fourth floor will be converted to supportive housing for people with chronic mental health challenges and who are at risk of homelessness.
Gathering Place will be able to accommodate three times the number of people seeking help and shelter, from 30 to 90. @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/L6sbo3gmHK
— Brian Callahan (@briancallahan67) May 31, 2023
